The secret to creating an efficient sunscreen formulation

With sustainability awareness steadily increasing across the world’s major markets, sun care makers are looking to the latest UV filter technology to help them improve the performance of their formulations while simultaneously lowering concentrations. But which UV filters are worth your consideration? To make the right choice, consider these key characteristics.

Is it photostable? Photostability is critical in any sunscreen formulation. The more photostable a UV filter is, the more it can withstand UV ray degeneration. And the longer a UV filter can remain effective, the more efficient the sun protection. UV filters with high photostability also minimize the production of free radicals during irradiation.

Is it versatile? While most UV filters minimize sun damage on the skin by either absorbing and/or reflecting sunlight, some advance UV filters also possess a scattering capability can extend their actions beyond absorption, thus boosting the efficacy of other soluble UV filters. The use of UV filters with scattering properties can also reduce the total concentration of UV filters required in a formulation and thus enable the creation of more efficient sunscreens.

Is it easily spreadable on the skin? Ensuring the skin remains thoroughly well-protected over long periods of time is essential to the performance of sunscreen. This is most influenced by the film-forming properties of the formulation. While different ingredients give a sunscreen different film-forming capabilities, choose a UV filter which can contribute to the film formation of the formulation in order to boost your sunscreen's SPF values.

Is it sustainable? We all know sustainability is important. But how do you ensure your product can actually meet the sustainability claims that your marketing department is making? When obtaining substantiation, make sure to work with accredited testing institutes’ using internationally accepted and standardized testing methodologies.

The secret to creating an efficient sunscreen formulation lies with choosing the right UV filter. Make the right choice is vital if you expect your product to provide consistent, sustainable protection over lengthy periods of time. Interested in learning more? Contact us so we can share our insight and expertise in developing solutions for the sunscreen industry.